The safety and security of commercial buildings is of utmost importance for business owners in Central Ohio. With valuable assets and confidential information stored inside, it’s essential to have a reliable and effective lock system in place. But with a plethora of options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right type of lock for your commercial building. As locksmiths at Locksmith Columbus, we have encountered and installed various lock types in Central Ohio, and in this article, we’ll discuss the common ones that we recommend for commercial buildings.
1. Deadbolts
Deadbolts are one of the most popular lock types for commercial buildings. They have a sturdy mechanism that makes it difficult for burglars to break in. They come in two types: single cylinder and double cylinder. Single cylinder deadbolts have a key cylinder on the outside and a thumb turn on the inside, while double cylinder deadbolts have key cylinders on both sides. It’s essential to consider the building’s fire safety regulations before choosing a double cylinder deadbolt as it can trap people inside in case of an emergency.
2. Keyless Entry Systems
With the advancement of technology, keyless entry systems have become increasingly popular for commercial buildings. These systems use codes, swipe cards, or biometric devices to grant access, eliminating the need for traditional keys. They offer convenience and enhanced security as the codes or cards can be changed or deactivated if lost or stolen. Also, biometric devices provide a higher level of security as they use unique physical characteristics like fingerprints or retinal scans to identify individuals.
3. Smart Locks
Smart locks combine the features of both traditional locks and keyless entry systems. They use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi technology to communicate with your smartphone and grant access. Typically, smart locks have a touchpad or a keypad on the outside and a conventional key slot on the inside for backup access. They also offer the convenience of remote access, so you can lock or unlock your commercial building from anywhere.
4. Panic Bars
Panic bars, also known as push bars or exit devices, are essential for commercial buildings with many occupants. They are installed on the inside of emergency exit doors and allow quick and easy exit in case of an emergency. Panic bars come in various types, including touch bars, crossbars, and concealed vertical rod panic bars. They are required to meet building and fire safety codes, making them a crucial addition for commercial buildings.
5. Mortise Locks
Mortise locks offer a high level of security and are commonly used in commercial buildings. They are installed inside the door and consist of a lock body, handle, and a key cylinder. The lock body, which is usually made of solid metal, is inserted into a pocket, or mortise, in the door. The handle operates the latch, while the key cylinder operates the deadbolt. These locks are sturdy, durable, and can withstand a significant amount of force, making them ideal for commercial buildings.
As professional locksmiths at Locksmith Columbus, we recommend considering these types of locks for your commercial building in Central Ohio. However, it’s essential to consult with a locksmith to assess your building’s security needs and determine the best lock options.
Common Lock Types for Commercial Buildings in Central Ohio
As a leading locksmith company in Central Ohio, we understand the importance of keeping your commercial building safe and secure. One key aspect of building security is the type of locks you have installed. With various options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right lock for your business. That’s why we have compiled a list of the most common lock types for commercial buildings in Central Ohio.
1. Deadbolts
Deadbolts are one of the most popular types of locks in commercial buildings. They are strong, durable, and provide excellent security. Deadbolts have a solid metal bolt that extends into the doorjamb, making it difficult for intruders to pry open the door. They come in a variety of styles including single or double-cylinder deadbolts. Single-cylinder deadbolts have a keyhole on one side, and a thumb turn on the other side, while double-cylinder deadbolts require a key to open from both sides.
2. Mortise Locks
Mortise locks are commonly used in commercial buildings because of their strength and durability. These locks have a heavy, rectangular box that fits into a recess in the door. The lock cylinder is located on the outside of the door, while the latch is on the inside. One of the benefits of mortise locks is that they can be easily rekeyed, making them a cost-effective option for businesses with high employee turnover.
3. Smart Locks
With the rise of technology, smart locks have become a popular choice for commercial buildings. These locks work by connecting to a smartphone or other devices through Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or a dedicated app. Smart locks provide convenience as well as enhanced security. They can be easily programmed to allow access to specific individuals at specific times, and some models also offer features such as remote lock and unlock, and activity logs.
4. Keyless Entry Systems
Keyless entry systems are another popular choice for commercial buildings. These locks use a keypad, card reader, or biometric scanner to allow entry. Employees do not need to carry physical keys, which reduces the risk of lost or stolen keys. Keyless entry systems also offer the benefit of customizable access, allowing for different levels of security clearance for different employees.
5. Panic Bars
Also known as push bars, panic bars are a type of lock commonly found in commercial buildings with high traffic areas or emergency exits. These locks are designed to be pushed open in case of an emergency, making it easy for people to quickly exit the building. They also have an alarm that sounds when the bar is pushed, alerting security or other employees.
At Locksmith Columbus, we understand that different commercial buildings have different security needs. That’s why we provide a wide range of lock services including installation, repair, and rekeying. Our team of highly trained professionals can help you choose the right lock for your business to ensure maximum security.
In addition to the types of locks mentioned above, we also offer other services such as master key systems, access control systems, and lock upgrades. We use top-quality products from trusted brands to ensure the highest level of security for your commercial building.
If you’re not sure which lock is best for your business, give us a call at (614) 585-8955 and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you. Our goal is to provide our customers in Central Ohio with peace of mind by ensuring their commercial buildings are safe and secure.
577 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 585-8955